An unforgettable camping experience
By: Funmi Bayode
In His Steps Camp 2023 is an experience that is deeply engraved in my memory. It was my first time at camp after years of being an active member of the In His Steps Movement. My excitement was top-notch and getting to meet with friends and close pals I had made during this period was a plus.
I am glad I went with an open heart to learn. I highly recommend this to anyone attending any IHS Camp. Nuggets of wisdom were scattered everywhere, and everyone left with their hearts and minds enriched.
The theme of the camp was Faith and here are some key takeaways that I noted:
Take yourself as seriously with a small audience as you would with a large one; Sir B (as he is fondly called) emphasized the importance of consistency in impacting lives, regardless of the audience size. Growth surpasses mere numbers, and true success is not determined by numbers alone.
Then the Faith talks were starting to roll in
Faith is a journey; a process not the outcome.
Faith is a verb; it should be exercised within God’s will
Faith transforms perspectives, providing a better understanding of one's circumstances (pleasant or unpleasant).
Dr Emmanuel Adebayo shared insights from Mark 4: The Parable of the Sower, revealing the symbolism of the pathway seeds, thorns, and rocks.
The pathway represents distractions that don’t allow God’s word to sip in.
The thorns are life happenings that cause us to question or doubt God’s promises
While the rocks represent foundational beliefs that oppose God’s word
His session encouraged us to renew our hearts as only God’s word can prepare us for the Word of God, for faith comes by hearing.
The Delectable Chimamaka Ige was in our midst and I couldn’t capture in words all that that session was. Here’s a tiny bit of what she shared:
Faith is your response when life happens.
You don't have faith because it is convenient; faith is a lifestyle
Knowing about God doesn’t build faith; knowing God does. A personal relationship is paramount.
Faith may lead us down an unpopular path.
Faith does not need to make sense. It makes Spirit (Selah)...
Tosin Sanni, Funmilola Banjoko, and Pastor Opeolu Olufemi also spoke on faith, with God's active presence evident through their shared messages. It was confirmation left, right and centre!
Then Pastor Yele brought a new perspective, emphasizing the importance of understanding that faith journeys may be similar but never identical. She dispelled the notion of God being angry at us and highlighted the role of a guilt-free conscience in building an intimate relationship with God.
Camp was a vibrant tapestry of all shades of fun. From the lively music (our in-house DJs gave us the jams back to back) to energetic dancing, meaningful connections and interactions, an entertaining movie night, good food, an exhilarating treasure hunt, and a variety of games—did I mention good music? The experience was a delightful blend of enjoyment in every form imaginable.
Just a moment of fun at IHS camp (L-R: Somisola, Funmi, Feranmi and Olufe)
Gaise Baba also graced us with his presence, and I must admit, I had anticipated a private concert experience (a girl is allowed to dream, right?). To my surprise, my expectations were exceeded when he delivered God's word. In a moment of vulnerability, he shared his faith journey, and here are the key points I noted:
A led life, guided by God, knows no limits.
When you can't hear God, listen to those who do.
Life has four phases: pre-womb, womb, post-womb/on earth, and post-earth. God ordained us from the pre-womb phase with an intentional purpose.
The faith journey is transformative, shaping individuals into better people.
Following the insightful session with Gaise Baba, we embarked on a thrilling boat cruise with him and even created a video cover of his trending song, "Elijah Level."
Funmi getting ready for the boat cruise during IHS camp
Singing and dancing to “Elijah Level” with Gaise Baba while on our Boat Cruise
The final moments at camp were incredibly emotional as we were charged and pumped for the new year with a resounding message to FOCUS! (2 Corinthians 4:18). Keep your eyes on the Jesus!
I have resolved not to miss IHS Camp for flimsy reasons. It's more than just a camp; it's a CAMPCATION – an experience to eagerly anticipate. I've already locked in my schedule for December 26-29, 2024, and you should too!
If you would like to get in touch and find out how to attend our 2024 youth camp, please send us an email: hello@ihsmovement.org